Absorbent articles and methods of manufacturing the same

ABSTRACT

An absorbent article includes a chassis having a substantially rectangular shape a first portion, a second portion and a crotch portion extending between the first and second portion, a portion of the chassis being configured to absorb fluids. The absorbent article includes a first securement portion operatively coupled to the first portion of the chassis. The absorbent article includes a second securement portion operatively coupled to the second portion of the chassis and configured to releasably attach to the first securement portion. The chassis is configured to include one of a first chassis length or a second chassis length. When the chassis includes the first length, the chassis includes a first width and the first securement portion includes a second width, and when the chassis includes the second length, the chassis includes the first width and the first securement portion includes a third width, greater than the second width.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.61/394,758 filed Oct. 19, 2010 and entitled “ABSORBENT ARTICLES ANDMETHODS OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME,” the contents of which are hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates generally to absorbent articles and, inparticular, to absorbent articles having improved fit, comfort andmanufacturability.

Millions of people of all ages suffer from incontinence of the bowel orbladder. Whether an infant, adult, or elderly person, the underlyingcause of incontinence varies but the method of treatment typicallyinvolves absorbent article products. Adult incontinent briefs,disposable diapers and underpads can alleviate some of the emotional andphysical discomfort of incontinence by absorbing and containing liquidand other discharges from the human body to prevent body and clothingsoiling.

Despite recent pressure from Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services(CMS) to change clinical practice to promote systematic treatment ofincontinence, improper use of absorbent incontinent products for themanagement of urinary and fecal incontinence continues. The highprevalence of incontinence in nursing home residents, results inIncontinence Associated Dermatitis (IAD) in the perineal area and is acommon complication. Improper fit or use, applying the wrong size to auser, of absorbent articles is a contributing factor to perinealdermatitis by creating increase heat build-up or chafing against thesuperficial skin tissue.

In an attempt to improve performance and reduce abrasion to the skin,the absorbent articles industry has been introducing new productconcepts with, for example, non-woven back sheets for better comfort.However, these products still contribute to the development of IAD dueto the improper size and design in the crotch chaises and leg cut out.In an attempt to size the garments appropriately, a majority of currentabsorbent articles are sold in five sizes: Medium, Regular, Large, ExtraLarge and 2X Large. These sizes however do not resolve the above issuesas the articles do not sufficiently accommodate users with differentbody size proportions. As a result caregivers constantly need to use alarger, oversized garment because the product design does not allow forgood fit around the patients waist and thigh leg area at the same time.Thus, caregivers are placing larger garments on the patient tocompensate which leads to higher cost; potential leakage; and lowerdignity because of a bigger bulky garment being worn.

Further, not using the correct size garment on a patient who suffersfrom incontinence violates the federal governments CMS-F315 rules thatrequire care professionals and staff to use the correct size and type ofgarment based on the patient's condition and size.

Additionally, multiple sizes are created by multiple size componentsleading to inefficient manufacturing process. Each size requires themanufacturer to stop the machine and change out a number of themachine's sections in order to produce the next size. After changing themachine sections, other sections need to be recalibrated in order toinsure the raw material components are converted correctly. Thesechangeovers can take anywhere between 6 to 12 hours depending on themachine being used by the manufacturer. This downtime reduces the amountof product the machine can produce and increases the manufacturersconverting cost. Further, current adult brief machines manufactures arerequired to use extra steel and other materials in order to build theadditional components for the additional sizes.

In another attempt to improve performance and fit, incontinence articlesare configured with stretchable material attached to the back panel ofthe article's ears. However the stretch briefs have shorter front panelsin order to offset the cost of stretch material. First this requires thecaregiver to use a different application technique because theattachment zone is smaller. Second, the stretch material, when extendedfully to accommodate a larger waist for patients who at the upper limitof sizing, can cause skin irritation and breakdown, particularly in thewaist and hip region. Often the waist securement portions areover-stretched and incorrectly fit, traumatizing the skin as it laysadjacent to.

In an attempt to improve the performance of an absorbent layer of theincontinence article, the top of a core of the absorbent layer can beembossed. Embossing the top of the absorbent layer can increase thelateral movement of fluid that comes in contact with the absorbent layerand can reduce leakage, but can also increase circular movement of thefluid and increase leakage. Similarly, absorbent layers having two coreshave similar advantages and disadvantages. In addition, flow between thetop core and the bottom core can be insufficient, even when the top ofthe bottom core is embossed.

Accordingly, a need exists for absorbent articles that provide a betterfit and comfort, and increased absorption, while reducing the number ofsizes within a range of products, reducing manufacturing costs, andreducing the impact on the environment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other advantages of the invention will become apparentupon reading the following detailed description and upon reference tothe drawings.

FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of absorbent article in a firstconfiguration according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2A-B illustrates a top view of a first absorbent article and asecond absorbent article in the first configuration according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 3A-B illustrates a top view of a third absorbent article and afourth absorbent article in the first configuration according to oneembodiment.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an absorbent article in asecond configuration.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of an absorbent article in a thirdconfiguration.

FIG. 6 illustrates a front securement portion coupled to a backsecurement portion according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7 illustrates a securement portion having an elastic panelaccording to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 illustrates a wearer including an absorbent article in the thirdconfiguration according to one embodiment.

FIG. 9 illustrates a wearer including an absorbent article in the thirdconfiguration according to another embodiment.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded view of the absorbent article shown inFIG. 1.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a second core of the absorbentarticle depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a first core of the absorbentarticle depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-section of an end view of a portion of anabsorbent article according to an embodiment.

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-section of an end view of a portion of anabsorbent article according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-section of an end view of a portion of anabsorbent article according to an embodiment.

FIG. 16 illustrates a cross-section of a side view of a portion of theabsorbent article shown in FIG. 15.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way ofexample in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. Itshould be understood, however, that the invention is not intended to belimited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the invention is tocover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling withinthe spirit and scope of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Absorbent articles as described herein generally include amoisture-pervious inner layer, an absorbent layer, and amoisture-impervious outer layer. Although the remainder of thedescription will be specifically directed to adult incontinencearticles, a disposable diaper, it is to be understood that theembodiments may also be implemented on other absorbent articles, babydiapers for example, and that the properties and uses described belowapply to these other absorbent articles as well.

Embodiments of the invention are now described in detail. Referring tothe drawings, like numbers indicate like parts throughout the views. Asused in the description herein and throughout the claims, the followingterms take the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise: the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includesplural reference, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on.” Relationalterms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be usedsolely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or actionwithout necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationshipor order between such entities or actions. Also, reference designatorsshown herein in parenthesis indicate components shown in a figure otherthan the one in discussion. For example, talking about a device (10)while discussing figure A would refer to an element, 10, shown in figureother than figure A.

In some embodiments, an absorbent article includes a chassis. Thechassis has a substantially rectangular shape including a lengthextending in a longitudinal direction from the back to the front of auser and a width extending in a lateral direction substantiallyperpendicular to the length between first and second longitudinal edges.The chassis further includes a first portion, a second portion and acrotch portion extending between the first and second portion, a portionof the chassis being configured to absorb fluids. The absorbent articleincludes a first securement portion operatively coupled to the firstportion of the chassis, the first securement portion having a widthextending in a lateral direction from the first longitudinal edge of thechassis first portion and a length extending longitudinally along thefirst longitudinal edge. The absorbent article includes a secondsecurement portion operatively coupled to the second portion of thechassis in a position longitudinally spaced from the first securementportion and configured to releasably attach to the first securementportion. The chassis is configured to include one of a first chassislength or a second chassis length. When the chassis includes the firstlength, the chassis includes a first width and the first securementportion includes a second width, and when the chassis includes thesecond length, the chassis includes the first width and the firstsecurement portion includes a third width, greater than the secondwidth.

In some embodiments, an absorbent article includes a chassis. Thechassis including a length extending in a longitudinal direction fromthe back to the front of a user and a width extending in a lateraldirection substantially perpendicular to the length between first andsecond longitudinal edges. The chassis comprises a first portion, asecond portion and a crotch portion extending between the first andsecond portion, a portion of the chassis being configured to absorbfluids. The absorbent article includes a first securement portionoperatively coupled to the first portion of the chassis, the firstsecurement portion having a width extending in a lateral direction fromthe first longitudinal edge of the first portion of the chassis and alength extending longitudinally along the first longitudinal edge. Theabsorbent article includes a second securement portion having a stretchportion and a non-stretch portion, the second securement portionoperatively coupled to the second portion of the chassis in a positionlongitudinally spaced from the first securement portion and configuredto releasably attach to the first securement portion. The chassisconfigured to include one of a first length or a second length. When thechassis includes the first length, the stretch portion of the secondsecurement portion includes a first width and the non-stretch portion ofthe second securement portion includes a second width, and when thechassis includes the second length, the stretch portion of the secondsecurement portion includes the first width and the non-stretch portionof the second securement portion includes a third width, greater thanthe second width.

In some embodiments, a system of absorbent articles to ensure a properlyfitting absorbent article includes a first absorbent article and asecond absorbent article. The first absorbent article has a first widthand a first length along a longitudinal edge. The first absorbentarticle includes a first portion, a second portion, and a crotch portionextending between the first and second portion. The first absorbentarticle includes a securement portion operatively coupled to the firstportion, the securement portion having a width extending in a lateraldirection from the longitudinal edge of the first portion and a lengthextending longitudinally along the longitudinal edge. The second asecond absorbent article has the first width and a second length along alongitudinal edge. The second absorbent article includes a firstportion, a second portion, and a crotch portion extending between thefirst and second portion. The second absorbent article includes asecurement portion operatively coupled to the first portion, thesecurement portion having a width extending in a lateral direction fromthe first longitudinal edge of the first portion and a length extendinglongitudinally along the first longitudinal edge.

Other features further provide leg openings that are more generous as aresult of the rectangular chassis, rectangular body securement portionconfiguration allowing for a more accurate fit to accommodate a widerange of body types per article size. Front panels are configured tounderlay the back panels providing a more comfortable fit and reducedskin degradation and trauma to the wearer.

FIG. 1 illustrates in plan view, an exemplary non-limiting generalembodiment of an absorbent article 100 in a substantially flatun-contracted state (the first configuration), having a reducedcomponent configuration that accommodates multiple sized wearers. Inthis embodiment the article comprises a chassis 102, securement portions104, 106, 108, 110, a first core portion 116, and a second core portion118. Although not shown in this figure, the absorbent article 100 mayinclude a set of leak guards and/or a set leg cuffs 142, 144, both knownto those of ordinary skill in the art. In this embodiment there are fourbody securement portions comprising a first securement portion 104, asecond securement portion 106, a third securement portion 108, and afourth securement portion 110. It should be noted that four securementportions are used in this embodiment however it should be recognizedthat other embodiments may be configured with more or fewer securementportions.

The absorbent article 100 generally consists of several layers (see,e.g., FIG. 10), including an inner layer, an absorbent layer, and anouter layer. The inner layer faces a wearer and contacts the skin of thewearer when the absorbent article 100 is secured to the wearer. Theinner layer may be composed of a moisture-pervious fabric suitable toallow bodily discharge to pass through the inner layer and be absorbedby the absorbent layer. Non-limiting examples of materials suitable toform the inner layer include polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester,materials having hydrophobic properties, combinations thereof and/or thelike. Additionally, the inner layer can be treated with a hydrophilicfinish to improve pass through of liquids to diaper layers beneath theinner layer. Non-limiting examples of suitable hydrophilic finishesinclude stearic acid, melamine-based chemicals, fluorocarbon chemicals,and silicon based chemicals.

The absorbent article 100 generally has a back region 150 and a frontregion 160. First securement portion 104 and second securement portion106 are coupled to and may extend from the back region 150, and thirdsecurement portion 108 and fourth securement portion 110 are coupled toand may extend from the front region 160. The back region 150 isgenerally positioned against the back of the user. The front region 160is generally positioned against the front of the user. The thirdsecurement portion 108 and the fourth securement portion 110 areconfigured to wrap around a wearer's waist from front to back, and thefirst securement portion 104 and the second securement portion 106 areconfigured to wrap around a wearer's waist from back to front. In thismanner, first securement portion 104 and second securement portion 106can be coupled to third securement portion 108 and fourth securementportion 104, respectively, to couple the front region 160 to the backregion 150.

The absorbent article 100 in this illustration of FIG. 1 is shown withthe portion of the absorbent article 100 that contacts the wearer shownfacing the viewer. The absorbent article 100 includes a longitudinalaxis 101 and a lateral axis 103. The absorbent article 100 includes afirst end portion 105, a second end portion 107, and an intermediateportion 109. The first end portion 105 is also referred to herein as afront waist region 105, the second end portion 107 is also referred toherein as a back waist region 107, and is substantially opposite thefirst end portion 105, and the intermediate portion 109 is also referredto herein as a crotch region 109, and is disposed longitudinally betweenthe front and back waist regions 105 and 107. The front waist region 105and the back waist region 107 generally comprise those portions of theabsorbent article 100 which, when worn, encircle the waist of thewearer. The crotch region 109 is that portion of the absorbent article100 which, when the absorbent article 100 is worn, is generallypositioned between the legs of the wearer. The back securement portions104 and 106 and the front securement portions 108 and 110, are separatedby distance L1 114. This distance L1 114 defines a portion of the legopening.

The article's chassis 102 has a chassis width “CW” 112, and a chassislength “CL” 111. The chassis width 112 is a common width across allarticle sizes that accommodate a plurality of body sizes. Stated in adifferent way, the absorbent article 100 has amulti-article-size-accommodating width 112 and amulti-article-size-accommodating length 111. Still, put in other words,one chassis width 112 is used for different sized brief articles whilestill accommodating different wearer's body sizes. By way of example,there are two lengths of the chassis, as illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG.3 in combination with FIG. 1, a first chassis length CL 211 a, 211 b fora first article size and a second article size, in this embodiment aMedium size and a Regular size, and a second chassis length CL 311 a 311b for a third article size and a fourth article size, for example aLarge size and a Xlarge size in this embodiment.

The chassis 102 has a shape such that its outer perimeter is rectangularor at least substantially rectangular in the first configuration in thisembodiment the absorbent article 100 has at least one securement portionthat is coupled to the chassis 102 at one of the front waist region 105or the back waist region 107. In other embodiment, there may be portionsof the chassis that are shaped and/or removed, such as in the crotchregion 109, for example, resulting in a narrower crotch region portion109 to provide a contoured fit between the legs. Still other embodimentshave different shaped chassis, such as hour glass shapes, T-shapes, andthe like.

The first securement portion 104 is coupled to a first longitudinal sideedge portion 113 of the chassis, the first securement portion 104overlapping the chassis 102 along the lineal contact points ofattachment 132. The amount of overlap is sufficient to reliably attachthe securement portion to the chassis such that there is no separationduring use, as would be understood to one of ordinary skill in the art.In one embodiment, the overlap of the first securement portion 104 withthe chassis 102 longitudinal side edge 113 is between 6 mm and 50 mm (orabout 0.25 inches and 2.0 inches). In this embodiment, the overlap ofthe securement portion with the chassis is generally the same for allfour securement portions. First securement portion 104 includes twofasteners 120. Fasteners 120 can be configured to operatively couplefirst securement portion 104 to third securement portion 108 and/or toanywhere along the front region 105. While FIG. 1 depicts firstsecurement portion 104 as including two fasteners 120, in someembodiments, first securement portion 104 can include more or fewerfasteners. While FIG. 1 depicts fasteners 120 sized and shaped aparticular way, in other embodiments, fasteners 120 can be a differentsize and/or shape, such as, for example, similar to fastener 762 asdepicted in FIG. 7.

The second securement portion 106 is coupled to the second longitudinalside edge portion 115 of the chassis, the first securement portion 106overlapping the chassis 102 along the lineal contact points ofattachment 130, in the same manner as the first securement portion 104.Together, the first securement portion 104, the back waist region of thechassis 107, and the second securement portion 106, laterally form theoverall width “OW_(a)” 170 of the article at the back region. The firstsecurement portion 104 has a first width P₁ 122 and the secondsecurement portion 106 has a second width P₂ 124. Second securementportion 106 includes two fasteners 120. Fasteners 120 can be configuredto operatively couple second securement portion 106 to fourth securementportion 110 and/or to anywhere along the front region 105. While FIG. 1depicts second securement portion 106 as including two fasteners 120, insome embodiments, second securement portion 106 can include more orfewer fasteners. While FIG. 1 depicts fasteners 120 sized and shaped aparticular way, in other embodiments, fasteners 120 can be a differentsize and/or shape, such as, for example, similar to fastener 762 asdepicted in FIG. 7.

In some embodiments, the first securement portion 104 and the secondsecurement portion 106 can be coupled to the chassis 102 in thefollowing manner. An end portion 131 of first securement portion 104 canbe temporarily coupled to and end portion 129 of second securementportion 106. In some of these embodiments, end portion 131 can overlapend portion 129 and can be temporarily coupled to end portion 129 via anadhesive. In other of these embodiments, end portion 131 can betemporarily coupled to end portion 129 via a perforated seem (not shown)between end portion 129 and end portion 131. Chassis 102 can betemporarily coupled to first securement portion 104 and secondsecurement portion 106. Specifically, the back waist region 107 of thechassis 102 can be disposed substantially on top of the end portion 129of the first securement portion 104 and the end portion 131 of thesecond securement portion 106. Said another way, end portion 129 offirst securement portion 104 and end portion 131 of second securementportion 106 can be disposed on a first side of chassis 102. At least aportion of first securement portion 104 can be folded over chassis 102such that first securement portion 104 can be operatively coupled tochassis 102 approximately at lineal contact points 132 as describedabove. At least a portion of second securement portion 106 can be foldedover chassis 102 such that second securement portion 106 can beoperatively coupled to chassis 102 approximately at lineal contactpoints 130 as described above. End portion 129 and end portion 131 canbe released from contact with the other of end portion 129 and endportion 131.

The third securement portion 108 is coupled to a third longitudinal sideedge portion 119 of the chassis, the third securement portion 108overlapping the chassis 102 along the lineal contact points ofattachment 134. The amount of overlap is sufficient to reliably attachthe securement portion to the chassis such that there is no separationduring use, as would be understood to one of ordinary skill in the art.

The fourth securement portion 110 is coupled to the fourth longitudinalside edge portion 121 of the chassis, the first securement portion 110overlapping the chassis 102 along the lineal contact points ofattachment 136, in the same manner as the first, second or thirdsecurement portion 104, 106, 108. Together, the third securement portion108, the front waist region of the chassis 105, and the fourthsecurement portion 110, laterally form the overall width “OW_(b)” 180 ofthe absorbent article 100 at the back region. The third securementportion 108 has a third width P₃ 126 and the fourth securement portion110 has a fourth width P₄ 128. In this embodiment all four securementportion widths P₁-P₄ are substantially the same.

Third securement portion 108 and fourth securement portion 110 can beoperatively coupled to the chassis 102 via temporary coupling of endportion 138 of third securement portion 108 and end portion 139 offourth securement portion 110 in a manner similar to that describedabove with reference to first securement portion 104 and secondsecurement portion 106.

In other embodiments the width of the securement portions may vary fromportion to portion as well as from front to back or side to side. Forexample, the first securement portion 104 and the second securementportion 106 may have a substantially equal width but a different widththan the third securement portion 108 and the fourth securement portion110. In another embodiment the first securement portion and the secondsecurement portion are one continuous piece, running across the entirechassis in a perpendicular fashion and extending beyond the edges of thechassis, forming the body securement portions. In another embodiment thethird securement portion and the fourth securement portion are onecontinuous piece, running across the entire chassis in a perpendicularfashion and extending beyond the edges of the chassis, forming the bodysecurement portions. In one embodiment the overall width of the backregion “OW_(a)” 170, including the first securement portion 104, thechassis 102 and the second securement portion 106 stays the same, andsimilarly the overall width of the front region “OW_(b)” 180, includingthe third securement portion 108 the chassis 102 and the fourthsecurement portion 110 stays substantially the same.

In one embodiment the chassis 102 has a common chassis width CW 112between 190 mm and 350 mm and preferably about 320 mm for all articlesizes (the first size article, the second size article, the third sizearticle and the fourth size article). In this embodiment the width ofeach securement portion (P_(x)) is the same at the back region end 150as it is in the front region end 160. For all article sizes (e.g.medium, regular, large extra large), the chassis width 112 is the same.In this embodiment the chassis 102 has a rectangular shape or asubstantially rectangular shape, wherein the width is the shortdimension. For the first article size and the second article size, thechassis 102 may also have a first common chassis length CL 111 which inthis embodiment is between 800 mm and 880 mm and preferably 860 mm. Forthe third article size and the fourth article size, the chassis 102 mayhave a second common chassis length CL 111, different from the firstcommon chassis length, and in this embodiment is between 860 mm to 1000mm and preferably 960 mm. The Chassis length CL 111 in this figurerefers to the dimension and not the actual value.

As shown in FIG. 1, the edge 199 of chassis 102 can be substantiallyflush with edge 117 of portion 104 and portion 106. In some embodiments,the edge 199 can extend beyond the edge 117 of portion 104 and portion106 (see, e.g., FIG. 4).

The articles are assembled together in the manufacturing process suchthat the body securement portions are secured to the chassis 102 whereinthe panels 104, 106, 108 and 110 are disposed between a first chassislayer, for example a top sheet, and a second chassis layer, for examplea bottom sheet. The machine assembling the article is set such that thepanel widths are changed from a first width to a second width in orderto change over from building a first article size 201 to a secondarticle size 202. Similarly, when changing over to a third article size,the panel widths are increased, and additionally in this embodiment, thechassis length is increased to the second chassis length as for thethird article size 303 and fourth article size 304. For these changes,the change over is completed by running different programs in themachine and minimal or even zero hard tooling change over is required.By way of example, there may be no hard tool change-overs such as thereplacement of cutting dies which are typically used for cutting legopenings. Instead, only vacuum plate changes may be needed for the sizechanges in the panel widths and length which are relatively simplereplacements. In some embodiments, the vacuum plates need not even bephysically replaced, the vacuum plates are sized to accommodate allsizes of panels and depending on the size of the panel, and vacuum portsare enabled or disable based on the size of the panel.

FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 illustrate together, in plan view fashion, anexemplary non-limiting general embodiment of four different sizedabsorbent articles, in the flat un-contracted state. The first absorbentarticle 201 configured as a first wearer size and the second absorbentarticle 202 configured as a second wearer size are shown in FIG. 2. Thethird absorbent article 303 sized as a third wearer size and the fourthabsorbent article 304 sized as a fourth wearer size are shown, in theirflat un-contracted state, in FIG. 3. The different wearer sizes, thefirst and second articles 201, 202 are created by configuring thesecurement portion widths, e.g. P1, P2 or both, for the first wearersize 201 and the second wearer size 202 in order to accommodatedifferent wearer waist sizes, all with the same chassis width 212 andchassis length 211 a and 211 b. For example, the first size article 201will have a fixed chassis width “CW” of about 320 mm and first, second,third and fourth securement portion individual widths of about 180 mm,while the second size article will have first, second, third and fourthsecurement portion widths of about 200 mm, however still with thechassis width “CW” of 320 mm. The chassis length 211 a and 211 b, areabout 860 mm for the first and second articles 201, 202.

In this embodiment, using the first size article 201 as an example, thesecurement portion width “P_(x)” may be maintained the same for eachsecurement portion 204, 206, 208, 210 or in another embodiment the firstsecurement width 204 may be a different width than the second securementportion width 206, while maintaining the same overall width 203 of therear portion of the article. In yet another embodiment the first andsecond securement portions 204, 206, may have a first width, and thethird and fourth securement portions 208, 210 may have a second width.

For the third size 303 and the fourth size 304 (FIG. 3), the chassiswidth 311 a and 311 b “CW” of about 320 mm, remains the same as thefirst and second sizes, however the securement portion widths “P_(x)”and the chassis lengths “CL” 111 are configured differently from thefirst size 201 and the second size 202 to accommodate the different,greater in this embodiment, article sizes. The third size article 303will have a fixed chassis width “CW” of about 320 mm and first, second,third and fourth securement portion widths of about 255 mm, while thefourth size article 304 will have first, second, third and fourthsecurement portion widths of about 275 mm. The chassis length, 311 a and311 b may be between 860 mm and 1000 mm and in one embodiment thechassis length 311 a and 311 b, is about 960 mm for the first and secondarticles 201, 202.

As with the first and second article sizes 201, 202, the securementportion width “P_(X)” may be maintained the same for each securementportion 304, 306, 308, 310 or in another embodiment the first securementportion 304 width may be a different width than the second securementportion width 306, yet while maintaining the same overall width “OW_(a)”301 of the article at the back end or the same overall width “OW_(b)”302 of the article at the front end. In yet another embodiment the firstand second securement portions 304, 306, may have a first width, and thethird and fourth securement portions 308, 310 may have a second width.As the width of the first and second portions increases, the width ofthe third and fourth portion may decrease, so long as there is overlapin accordance with the size of the article to fit the wearer.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the third size article 303 will havea fixed chassis width “CW” of about 320 mm and first, second, third andfourth securement portion widths of about 255 mm, while the fourth sizearticle 304 will have first, second, third and fourth securement portionwidths of about 275 mm. The chassis length, 311 a and 311 b may bebetween 860 mm and 1000 mm and in one embodiment the chassis length 311a and 311 b, is about 960 mm for the first and second articles 201, 202.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an absorbent article 400 in a secondconfiguration. Absorbent article 400 can be similar to and includesimilar components as absorbent article 100. By way of example,absorbent article 400 includes securement portion 404, 406, 408, and410, which can be similar to securement portions 104, 106, 108, and 110,respectively. The second configuration shows the chassis 402 in aposition as it would be when placed on the wearer although thesecurement portions, 404, 406, 408 and 410 remain in an un-contracted,unwrapped state. Securement portion 404 includes an edge 465, securementportion 406 includes an edge 467, securement portion 408 includes anedge 466, and securement portion 410 includes an edge 469.

FIG. 5 is a side view of an absorbent article 500 in a thirdconfiguration. Absorbent article 500 can be similar to and includesimilar components as absorbent article 100. By way of example,absorbent article 500 includes securement portion 504 (not shown), 506,508, and 510 (not shown), which can be similar to securement portions104, 106, 108, and 110, respectively. The third configuration shows thesecurement portions in a wrapped state, as they would be wrapped arounda wearer. In this embodiment, the securement portions may be configuredsuch that the second securement portion 506 overlaps the thirdsecurement portion 508, and the first securement portion 504 overlapsthe fourth securement portion 510. The third and fourth securementportions 508, 510, lay directly adjacent the wearer's skin, while thefirst securement portion 504 and the second securement portion 506, liepartially on the wearer's skin and partially on the third and fourthsecurement portions respectively. Having front securement portions thatmay wrap substantially up to an in some embodiments substantially past aperson mid point and around towards and against the wearer's backsideprovides a more comfortable fit.

The leg opening 501, is defined by a bottom edge 570 of the securementportions, a second securement portion 506 and a third securement portion508, and the longitudinal edges portions 505 of the chassis 502, havingthe length L1 114 between the securement portions along the longitudinaledge of the chassis 502. Because of the rectangular nature of thesecurement portions 506 and 508 for the first leg opening, the bottomedge 570 is significantly adjacent the waist and, is positioned higherthan or at least significantly above the thigh of the wearer.

FIG. 6 illustrates a front securement portion 608 and a back securementportion 606. The front securement portion 608 can be similar to thirdsecurement portion 108 and fourth securement portion 110, and backsecurement portion 606 can be similar to first securement portion 104and second securement portion 106. The front securement portion has alength 674 and the back securement portion has a length 676. The lengthof the front securement portion 608 is greater than the length 676 ofthe back securement portion. A fastener 678 is coupled to the backsecurement portion 606. The length of the front securement portion 608is greater than the length for the back securement portion 606 to moveup or down during fastening and still provide a landing zone for thefastener 678, such that the fastener 678 does not come in contact withthe wearer's skin. In this embodiment, the fastener 678 hassubstantially the same length as the back securement portion 606 length676. The fastener 678 in this embodiment may be applied to the backsecurement portion 606 and cut to length during the formation of theback securement portion 606.

FIG. 7 illustrates a securement portion 706, of a chassis 702, thesecurement portion 706 including an elastic panel coupled thereto.Securement portion 706 can be similar to and include similar componentswith first securement portion 104 and second securement portion 106. Inone embodiment, the securement portion 706 has a first non-elastic panel752, a second non-elastic panel 754 and an elastic panel 756. In oneembodiment, the elastic panel 756 is disposed between the firstnon-elastic panel 752 and the second non-elastic panel 754. Each panelhas a first side edge and a second side edge, distal the first sideedge, and a top edge 766 and a bottom edge 768, forming a rectangle. Thefirst non-elastic panel 752 is attached to the chassis 702 at a firstside edge of the first non-elastic panel 752 and to a first side edge ofthe elastic panel 756 at a second side edge, distal the first side edge.A second side edge of the elastic panel 756, distal the first side edge,is coupled to a first side edge of the second non-elastic panel 754. Thesecond side edge 764, distal the first side edge, has at least onefastener 762 coupled thereto. Securement portion 706 is coupled to thechassis 702 in a similar fashion to the securement portions 104, 106,108, 110 as discussed above.

A first seam 758 is formed by the first non-elastic panel 752 secondside edge joint with the first side edge of the elastic panel 756. Asecond seam 760 is formed by the second side edge of the elastic panel756, joint with the first side edge of the second non-elastic panel 754.

Having a portion of the securement portion 706 include a stretchablematerial allows for a single article to fit a greater number size rageof wearers. For example in one embodiment, only to article size are needto fit the same size range of wears for the four articles discussedabove. This further reduces waste as there is a reduction in the amountof machinery need to build multiple size accommodating articles as wellas less change over from product size to product size, therebyincreasing efficiency in the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment the elastic panel 756 has a width between 40 mm and100 mm and preferably has a width of about 68 mm in one embodiment for afirst article size. The non-elastic portions may have equal widths whichmay be about 77 mm for example for the first article size. For a secondsize in this embodiment, the elastic panel 756 has a width between 40 mmand 100 mm and preferably has a width of about 68 mm in one embodimentfor a first article size. The non-elastic portions may have equal widthswhich may be about 108 mm for example. There is an overlap of thenon-elastic portion and the elastic portion of about 15 mm in thisembodiment. This overlap is where the two portions are joined together.In this embodiment, the two portions are glued together. One of ordinaryskill in the art will understand the plurality of methods and proceduresfor affixing the portions together.

The stretch material may be made from stretch material as understood bythose of ordinary skill in the art. In one embodiment the stretchmaterial is a 107gsm stretch material by 3M. FIG. 8 illustrates wearerincluding an absorbent article 800 in the third configuration. Theabsorbent article can include a chassis 802. In this embodiment a frontsecurement portion 808 wraps around the wearer from front to back andlays underneath the back securement portion 806. The back securementportion 806 can overlap the front securement portion 808 a distance 880.Front securement portion 808 can be similar to and include similarcomponents with third securement portion 108, fourth securement portion110, and front securement portion 708. Similarly, back securementportion 806 can be similar to and include similar components with firstsecurement portion 104, second securement portion 106 and backsecurement portion 706. In this embodiment the front securement portion808 length 874 is greater than the back securement portion 806 length882. The back securement portion 806 includes an elastic panel 856disposed between a first non-elastic panel 852 and a second non-elasticpanel 854, and includes a fastener 862 similar to fastener 762 andfastener 678. A first seam 858, formed by the joint between the elasticportion 856 and the first non-elastic portion 852. A second seam 868,formed by the joint between the elastic portion 856 and the secondnon-elastic portion 854. The width of the front securement portion 808is great enough that it lays between the second seam 860 and thewearer's skin reducing the abrasive effect of the seam on the skin. Inthis embodiment the front securement portion width is between 130 mm and260 mm and is preferably 180 mm for a first embodiment first size. Theoverall width for the first size is 680 mm, and may be between 630 mmand 830 mm. The front securement portion width is between 205 mm and 335mm and is preferably 255 mm for a first embodiment second size. Theoverall width for the second size is 829 mm, and may be between 720 mmand 950 mm.

FIG. 9 illustrates a wearer including an absorbent article 900 in thethird configuration. In this embodiment a front securement portion 908wraps around the wearer from front to back and lays underneath the backsecurement portion 906. The back securement portion 906 can overlap thefront securement portion 908 a distance 980. Front securement portion908 can be similar to and include similar components with thirdsecurement portion 108, fourth securement portion 110, and frontsecurement portion 708. Similarly, back securement portion 906 can besimilar to and include similar components with first securement portion104, second securement portion 106 and back securement portion 706. Inthis embodiment the front securement portion 908 length 974 is greaterthan the back securement portion 906 length 982. The back securementportion 906 includes an elastic panel 956 disposed between a firstnon-elastic panel 952 and a second non-elastic panel 954, and includes afastener 920 similar to fastener 120. A first seam 966, is formed by thejoint between the elastic panel 956 and the second non-elastic panel954. The width of the front securement portion 908 is great enough thatit lays between the first seam 966 and the wearer's skin reducing theabrasive effect of the seam on the skin. A second seam 958, is formed bythe joint between the elastic panel 856 and the first non-elastic panel852. The width of the front securement portion 908 is great enough thatit lays between the first seam 966 and the second seam 958 and thewearer's skin reducing the abrasive effect of the seam on the skin.

In this embodiment the front securement portion width is between 130 mmand 260 mm and is preferably 180 mm for a first embodiment first size.The overall width for the first size is 680 mm, and may be between 630mm and 830 mm. The front securement portion width is between 205 mm and335 mm and is preferably 255 mm for a first embodiment second size. Theoverall width for the second size is 829 mm, and may be between 720 mmand 950 mm.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the absorbent article 100with certain items removed for clarity. As shown in FIG. 10, absorbentarticle 100 includes securement portions 104, 106, 108, 110; first core116; second core 118; fasteners 120; and leg cuffs 142, 144.Additionally, absorbent article includes an inner layer 130, an AD 133disposed between the inner layer 130 and the second core 118, an outerlayer 135, and elastic bands 137. The elastic bands 137 can improve thefit of the absorbent article 100 and can improve the comfort of thewearer.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a top side (facing towards wearer) ofthe second core 118, and FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a bottom side(facing away from a wearer) of the first core 116. Each of first core116 and second core 118 can be composed of similar material, and can beshaped depending on the size of the absorbent article, and whether it isindented for use by infants, children and/or adults. By way of example,and as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, first core 116 can be larger andsubstantially hourglass shaped, whereas second core 118 can be smaller,relative to first core 116, and can be substantially rectangular shaped.In this manner, the absorbent article can include a large surface areaof coverage provided by the first core 116, and the increased absorbencyprovided by the second core 118, without the additional bulk of a secondcore having the same size as the first core.

First core 116 is shown having an embossed bottom and second core 118 isshown having an embossed top. The embossed top of second core 118 andthe embossed bottom of first core 116 provide increased longitudinalflow while reducing lateral flow, and, in this manner, reducing leakage.Said another way, the embossed top of second core 118 and the embossedbottom of first core 116 allows fluid to move longitudinally towards thefront and the back of a wearer, as opposed to towards the legs of awearer.

Each of the first core 116 and the second core 118 may be composed ofany materials suitable for absorbing the fluids and discharge including,but not limited to, a fibrous material (e.g., fluffed wood pulp), asuper absorbent polymer (SAP), or the combination of SAP and fibrousmaterial. The SAP can be natural or synthetic and may be biodegradable.Non-limiting examples of SAP include polymers based on acrylate(s) suchas sodium acrylate, potassium acrylate, and/or an alkyl acrylate(s)(e.g., methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, propyl acrylate, butyl acrylate,and hexyl acrylate). The absorbency of the diaper may vary dependingupon whether it is intended for use by infants, children and/or adults.

While FIGS. 11 and 12 depict the first core 116 having an embossedbottom, and the second core 118 having an embossed top (see also, forexample, FIGS. 15 and 16), in some embodiments, an absorbent article canhave only a single core with no embossing (see, e.g., FIG. 13), a singlecore with embossing on both sides (see, e.g., FIG. 14), and/or othercombinations of one or two cores each with embossing on one, both, orneither side. While the FIGS. show absorbent articles include one or twocores, in some embodiments, absorbent articles can include more or fewercores. While FIGS. 11, 12, 14, and 15 depict embossing as including fourspaced apart embossing “lines,” in some embodiments, a core can includemore or fewer embossing lines. In some embodiments, embossing lines canbe adjacent one another, or can be a combination of adjacent and spaceapart embossing line. In this manner, the different combinations ofembossing lines can define an embossing pattern. While FIGS. 11, 12, 14,and 15 depict embossing substantially along the entire width and lengthof each respective core, in some embodiments a core can have embossingsubstantially along an entire width and/or length, and/or a portion of awidth and/or length.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an absorbent article1000. The absorbent articles described above generally consists ofseveral layers including an inner layer 1001, an absorbent layer 1002,and an outer layer 1003, as depicted in FIG. 10. In general andapplicable to any of the above embodiment, an absorbent layer 1002 maybe positioned between the inner layer 1001 and the outer layer 1003 ofthe absorbent article. The absorbent layer 1002 includes a core 1012.The core 1012 can be similar to and include similar characteristics withone or both of first core 116 and/or second core 118.

The outer layer 1003, which faces away from the wearer when theabsorbent article is secured to the wearer, is composed of amoisture-impervious fabric. Accordingly, the outer layer 1003 may bemade of any material suitable to minimize or prevent fluids and otherdischarge from escaping the diaper. Non-limiting examples of suitablematerials for the outer layer include polyethylene and/or breathablepoly. According to some embodiments, the outer layer can be a thin filmsuch as, for example, polyethylene film. As will be discussed in greaterdetail below, the outer layer is typically formed from a plastic resinof any of the above-referenced materials. This outer layer 1003 thatprevents diapers from leaking also prevents air circulation, thuscreating a warm, moist environment where bacteria and fungi can thrive.This bacteria and fungi can cause infectious diseases, unpleasant odors,urinary tract infections, bladder infections, kidney infections, diaperrashes and the like.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an absorbent article1100. The absorbent article 1100 can be similar to and include similarcomponents with the absorbent article 1000. The absorbent article 1100includes an inner layer 1101, an absorbent layer 1102, and an outerlayer 1103. In general and applicable to any of the above embodiment, anabsorbent layer 1102 may be positioned between the inner layer 1101 andthe outer layer 1103 of the absorbent article. The absorbent layer 1102includes a core 1112. Unlike the absorbent article 1000, the core 1112includes and embossed top 1112A and an embossed bottom 1112B. In thismanner, the core 1112 provides increased longitudinal movement of fluidon both the embossed top 1112A and embossed bottom 1112B of the core1012, and reduced lateral flow, decreasing the potential for leaks fromthe side of the absorbent article 1100.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional end view of a portion of an absorbentarticle 1200. The absorbent article 1200 can be similar to and includesimilar components with the absorbent article 1000 and absorbent article1100. The absorbent article 1200 includes an inner layer 1201, anabsorbent layer 1202, and an outer layer 1203. In general and applicableto any of the above embodiment, the absorbent layer 1202 may bepositioned between the inner layer 1201 and the outer layer 1203 of theabsorbent article. The absorbent layer 1202 includes a first core 1212and a second core 1214. Unlike the absorbent article 1000, but similarto absorbent article 100, the first core 1212 including an embossedbottom 1212A and the second core 1214 including an embossed top 1214A.In this manner, the first core 1212 and the second core 1212B provideincreased longitudinal movement of fluid on both the embossed top 1214Aand embossed bottom 1212B of the second core 1112 and the first core1214, respectively.

FIG. 16 is a side view of absorbent article 1200. As depicted in FIG. 16fluid may flow from a wearer into contact with absorbent article 1200.Fluid flow is shown in FIG. 16 as dashed paths FF1, FF2, and FF3. Whilefluid flow is shown as dashed paths in FIG. 16, in some embodiments,fluid may not flow along a defined path, or paths, in any pattern, andmay or may not contact absorbent article at any one or multipleparticular locations. The fluid can first flow into contact with, bepartially absorbed by, and pass through, inner layer 1201. The fluid canflow into contact with the embossed top 1214A of second core 1214. Aportion of the fluid can be absorbed by second core 1214 and/or movelongitudinally and/or laterally on and/or within second core 1214; and aportion of the fluid can pass through second core 1214 and into contactwith first core 1212. Both the greater surface area of the embossed top1214 A, and the space created by embossed top 1214A between inner layer1201 can direct the fluid flow longitudinally towards the front and theback of the wearer, and away from edges of absorbent article 1200 (e.g.,reduced lateral flow. In this manner, when longitudinal flow isincreased and/or when lateral flow is decreased, leakage can be reduced.A portion of the fluid can be absorbed by first core 1212 and/or movelongitudinally and/or laterally on and/or within first core 1212; and aportion of the fluid can pass through first core 1212 and into contactwith outer layer 1203. Both the greater surface area of the embossedbottom 1212 A, and the space created by embossed bottom 1212A betweenouter layer 1203 can direct the fluid flow longitudinally towards thefront and the back of the wearer, and away from edges of absorbentarticle 1200 (e.g., reduced lateral flow. In this manner, whenlongitudinal flow is increased and/or when lateral flow is decreased,leakage can be reduced.

While the present invention has been described with reference to one ormore particular embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognizethat many changes may be made thereto without departing from the spiritand scope of the present invention. Furthermore, components from oneembodiment can be used in other non-exclusive embodiments. By way ofexample, any of the absorbent articles described herein can include anyof the absorbent layers described in FIGS. 10-12. Each of theseembodiments and obvious variations thereof is contemplated as fallingwithin the spirit and scope of the invention, which is set forth in thefollowing alternative embodiments.

1. An absorbent article, comprising: a chassis, the chassis having asubstantially rectangular shape including a length extending in alongitudinal direction from the back to the front of a user and a widthextending in a lateral direction substantially perpendicular to thelength between first and second longitudinal edges, the chassiscomprising a first portion, a second portion and a crotch portionextending between the first and second portion, a portion of the chassisbeing configured to absorb fluids; a first securement portionoperatively coupled to the first portion of the chassis, the firstsecurement portion having a width extending in a lateral direction fromthe first longitudinal edge of the chassis first portion and a lengthextending longitudinally along the first longitudinal edge; a secondsecurement portion operatively coupled to the second portion of thechassis in a position longitudinally spaced from the first securementportion and configured to releasably attach to the first securementportion; the chassis configured to include one of a first chassis lengthor a second chassis length; when the chassis includes the first length,the chassis includes a first width and the first securement portionincludes a second width; and when the chassis includes the secondlength, the chassis includes the first width and the first securementportion includes a third width, greater than the second width.
 2. Theabsorbent article of claim 1, further including: a third securementportion operatively coupled to the first portion of the chassis, thethird securement portion having a width extending in a lateral directionfrom the first longitudinal edge of the chassis first portion and alength extending longitudinally along the first longitudinal edge; and afourth securement portion operatively coupled to the second portion ofthe chassis in a position longitudinally spaced from the thirdsecurement portion and configured to releasably attach to the thirdsecurement portion.
 3. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein whenthe chassis includes the first length, the apparatus is configured tofit a first range of users, and when the chassis includes the secondlength, the apparatus is configured to fit a second range of users,different from the first range of users.
 4. The absorbent article ofclaim 3, wherein the first range of users is mutually exclusive from thesecond range of users.
 5. The absorbent article of claim 1, wherein thefirst securement portion includes a length greater than a length of thesecond securement portion.
 6. The absorbent article of claim 1, theportion of the chassis being configured to absorb fluids includes a corehave an embossed top side and an embossed bottom side.
 7. The absorbentarticle of claim 1, the portion of the chassis being configured toabsorb fluids includes a first core having an embossed top side and anembossed bottom side, a second core having an embossed top side and anembossed bottom side, and the bottom side of the first core is disposedin contact with the top side of the second core.
 8. An absorbentarticle, comprising: a chassis, the chassis including a length extendingin a longitudinal direction from the back to the front of a user and awidth extending in a lateral direction substantially perpendicular tothe length between first and second longitudinal edges, the chassiscomprising a first portion, a second portion and a crotch portionextending between the first and second portion, a portion of the chassisbeing configured to absorb fluids; a first securement portionoperatively coupled to the first portion of the chassis, the firstsecurement portion having a width extending in a lateral direction fromthe first longitudinal edge of the first portion of the chassis and alength extending longitudinally along the first longitudinal edge; asecond securement portion having a stretch portion and a non-stretchportion, the second securement portion operatively coupled to the secondportion of the chassis in a position longitudinally spaced from thefirst securement portion and configured to releasably attach to thefirst securement portion; the chassis configured to include one of afirst length or a second length; when the chassis includes the firstlength, the stretch portion of the second securement portion includes afirst width and the non-stretch portion of the second securement portionincludes a second width; and when the chassis includes the secondlength, the stretch portion of the second securement portion includesthe first width and the non-stretch portion of the second securementportion includes a third width, greater than the second width.
 9. Theabsorbent article of claim 8, the portion of the chassis beingconfigured to absorb fluids includes a core have an embossed top sideand an embossed bottom side.
 10. The absorbent article of claim 8,wherein the stretch portion and the non-stretch portion beingoperatively coupled at a seam, a portion of the second securementportion configured to overlap a portion of the first securement portionsuch that the seam is disposed on the first securement portion.
 11. Theabsorbent article of claim 8, wherein the non-stretch portion of thesecond securement portion is a first non-stretch portion, and thestretch portion being disposed between the first non-stretch portion anda second non-stretch portion of the of the second securement portion.12. The absorbent article of claim 11, wherein the stretch portion andthe first non-stretch portion being operatively coupled at a first seam,the stretch portion and the second non-stretch portion being operativelycoupled at a second seam, a portion of the second securement portionconfigured to overlap a portion of the first securement portion suchthat the first seam is disposed on the first securement portion.
 13. Theabsorbent article if claim 12, wherein a portion of the secondsecurement portion is configured to overlap a portion of the firstsecurement portion such that the first seam and the second seam aredisposed on the first securement portion.
 14. The absorbent article ofclaim 8, wherein when the chassis includes the first length, theapparatus is configured to fit a first range of users, and when thechassis includes the second length, the apparatus is configured to fit asecond range of users, different from the first range of users.
 15. Theabsorbent article of claim 14, wherein the first range of users ismutually exclusive from the second range of users.
 16. A system ofabsorbent articles to ensure a properly fitting absorbent article,comprising: a first absorbent article having a first width and a firstlength along a longitudinal edge, the first absorbent article including:a first portion, a second portion, and a crotch portion extendingbetween the first and second portion, a securement portion operativelycoupled to the first portion, the securement portion having a widthextending in a lateral direction from the longitudinal edge of the firstportion and a length extending longitudinally along the longitudinaledge; and a second absorbent article having the first width and a secondlength along a longitudinal edge, the second absorbent articleincluding: a first portion, a second portion, and a crotch portionextending between the first and second portion, a securement portionoperatively coupled to the first portion, the securement portion havinga width extending in a lateral direction from the first longitudinaledge of the first portion and a length extending longitudinally alongthe first longitudinal edge.
 17. The system of claim 16, wherein thefirst absorbent article having the first length is configured to fit afirst range of users, and the second absorbent article having the secondlength is configured to fit a second range of users, different from thefirst range of users.
 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the firstsecurement portion of the first absorbent article has a first width fora first portion of the first range of article user sizes and a secondwidth for a second portion of the first range of article user sizes. 19.The system of claim 17, wherein the first securement portion of thesecond absorbent article has a first width for a first portion of thesecond range of article user sizes and a second width for a secondportion of the second range of article user sizes.
 20. The system ofclaim 16, the first absorbent article further including a core having anembossed top side and an embossed bottom side, and the second absorbentarticle further including a core having an embossed top side and anembossed bottom side.